MEDIA ADVISORY/NEWS RELEASE

Sexual Assaults Increase for 1st Quarter of the Year

Thus far in 2009, the Sacramento Police Department has seen a reduction in crime rates in all categories with the exception of sexual assaults.

From January - April 2009, we have received nearly double the number of sexual assault reports in comparison to the same time period from the previous year. In reviewing the cases, the increase was noted in cases where the suspect was known to the victim either as a friend or a family member. The Police Department encourages those who are victims of sexual assault to immediately report the incident. In sexual assault cases, it is important to preserve any physical evidence of the crime by not showering and maintain the clothing you were wearing.

The following are some general safety tips to try and follow:

Avoid meeting anyone alone that you have never met or only know casually (i.e. online chat rooms, blind dates, etc.). If you do, make sure someone knows who and where you are meeting, and try to meet in a public place

If you are out after hours or late at night, have someone you trust walk with you.